CPA Requirements Overview for New Mexico
Mastering the New Mexico CPA requirements involves a detailed understanding of the steps to becoming a licensed CPA in the state. New Mexico CPA candidates must meet specific education requirements, pass the CPA exam, and complete the required experience to obtain initial licensure. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the application process and meet all CPA license requirements.
Table of Contents
Understanding the New Mexico CPA Exam Requirements
| CPA Exam Requirements New Mexico – Overview | |
| Educational Hours Required for Exam | 120 Semester Hours |
| Educational Hours Required for Licensure | 150 Semester Hours |
| Residency Required | Not required |
| Degree Required | Bachelor’s or Master’s |
| Minimum Age | 18 |
| Application Fee | $93 (Education Evaluation Application Fee) |
| Additional Requirements | New Mexico Board of Accountancy Site |
Education Requirements
To sit for the CPA exam in New Mexico, candidates must first meet the education evaluation standards. This includes:
- Earning a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree from a regionally accredited university or accredited college
- Completing 150 semester hours of college education, including accounting courses and related courses such as business law, auditing, taxation, and finance courses
- Completing 30 hours in accounting, with coursework from a school located within a recognized campus located region
Accrediting bodies include the N. Central Association, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, among others.
Programs must also be deemed education evaluation application fee eligible, ensuring compliance with standards required for CPA licensure.
Overview of the New Mexico Public Accountancy Board
The New Mexico Public Accountancy Board—sometimes referred to as the Mexico Public Accountancy Board—is responsible for regulating New Mexico CPA licensees and overseeing CPA exam requirements and the application process.
To meet Mexico CPA requirements, candidates must:
- Complete at least 150 semester hours of completed courses
- Have a degree with related courses in business law, financial accounting, and financial accounting and reporting
- Be of good moral character, meet the minimum age requirement, and establish state residency
The Mexico CPA exam includes all standard discipline sections, and passing candidates earn a Certified Public Accountants certificate.
Understanding the CPA Exam
The Uniform CPA Examination is administered by CPA Examination Services, a division of the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), and developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
Before submitting your CPA exam application, make sure you’ve met the exam requirements:
- Complete coursework at a regionally accredited university
- Submit an official transcript
- Be deemed eligible by the Board
The CPA examination is divided into four sections, consisting of three core sections and one discipline section of your choice:
Core Sections:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
Discipline Sections (choose one):
- Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
- Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
- Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)
Each exam section follows a defined exam format and is administered at a Prometric testing center. The discipline sections allow CPA candidates to demonstrate deeper knowledge in their chosen area of expertise, aligning with their career goals in public accounting and beyond.
Preparing for the CPA Exam
To prepare for the uniform CPA exam, many CPA candidates choose to enroll in commercial CPA review courses. These resources help you understand the exam section application, plan for examination fees, and track your progress during the three year period allowed for passing all sections.
Don’t forget to pay the exam fees and create your Okta account for secure communication with NASBA.
AICPA Ethics Exam Requirement
After passing the CPA examination, all New Mexico CPA candidates must complete the AICPA ethics exam, formally titled Professional Ethics: The AICPA’s Comprehensive Course (for Licensure). A passing score of 90% is required.
The exam can be scheduled at a Prometric testing center, and the course is ideal for those who have completed accounting programs at an accredited college.
Topics include management advisory services, financial statement analysis, and professional conduct.
Experience Requirements
To meet the New Mexico CPA experience requirements, candidates must complete at least 2,000 hours, or at least one year, of paid or volunteer work in public accounting, including financial accounting, tax, audit, or consulting.
Additional steps include:
- Submitting a work experience verification form
- Completing a fingerprint background check
- Paying the education evaluation application fee
Experience must be gained within seven years of passing the CPA exam or prior to taking it.
New Mexico CPA Exam Fees
Candidates can take one or more sections of the exam at a time and must pay the following fees to CPA Examination Services at the time of application:
- Education Evaluation/Application Fee: $93 (non-refundable)
- Exam Section Fee: $355.64 per section
- Total Fee for all 4 Exam Sections: $1,422.56
Continuing Education and License Renewal
CPA license requirements in New Mexico include 120 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) every three year period. This must include:
- 20 hours in professional ethics
- 20 hours in accounting and related subjects
Noncompliance could result in license cancellation. CPAs should stay involved with groups such as the New Mexico Society of CPAs and the Mexico Society, which offer resources for continuing education and grade transfer information.
New Mexico CPA FAQs
What are the educational requirements to sit for the CPA in New Mexico?
Candidates must complete at least 150 semester hours from a regionally accredited university, including 30 hours in accounting and related courses such as business law and finance courses. The Board accepts degrees from a school located in an approved region and verifies credentials through official transcripts and a paid education evaluation.
How do I apply for the CPA exam in New Mexico?
Follow these steps:
- Handle any interstate notification, if needed
- Meet the education requirements
- Submit your CPA exam application and official transcript
- Complete a background check and provide proof of identity
- Schedule your exam at a Prometric testing center
- Pass the ethics exam
Final Thoughts
Becoming a licensed CPA in New Mexico requires planning, persistence, and compliance with all New Mexico CPA requirements. Whether you’re just starting your college education or preparing for initial licensure, understanding the following requirements—from education evaluation to the AICPA ethics exam—will set you up for success in the field of accountancy.
For the most accurate information, visit the New Mexico Public Accountancy Board or consult CPA Examination Services directly.
New Mexico State Board of Public Accountancy
Address: 5500 San Antonio Dr. NE, Suite A Albuquerque, NM 87109
Phone: (505) 222-9850 Fax: (505) 222-9855
Email: accountancy.board@state.nm.us
Web: www.rld.state.nm.us
Application form: New Mexico CPA Application Form